Are we returning to the COVID era? Respiratory infections increased by 17% in Antioquia
Intense rains and drastic temperature changes have caused an increase in acute respiratory infections (ARI) in Antioquia at the start of 2026. According to the Antioquia Health Secretariat, so far this year in the department, 65,439 consultations for these types of infections have been registered in emergency services and outpatient clinics.
TL;DR
- Antioquia registered 65,439 consultations for acute respiratory infections (ARI) in early 2026, a 17% increase from the previous year.
- Hospitalizations for ARI increased by 32%, from 2,550 in 2025 to 3,382 in 2026.
- Climate factors, particularly intense rains, are identified as the primary cause for the rise in infections.
- Medellín reported a 14.7% increase in consultations but a 19% decrease in hospitalizations.
- Children under five and adults over 60 are the most vulnerable populations.
- Simultaneous circulation of multiple respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and Influenza, has been confirmed.
- Health authorities are urging increased vaccination against influenza and adherence to preventive measures like mask-wearing and hand hygiene.
- Intensified epidemiological surveillance and strengthened diagnostics are being implemented to combat the increase.